Take a Timeout

By Angela Ware

As an avid sports fan, there are times when my favorite teams are struggling in a game, and I find myself yelling at the coach, (sometimes via the TV) “Take a timeout!” When they don’t hear me, I yell even louder. Then I start soliciting agreement from those around me by asking the proverbial questions, “Did you see that? Why don’t they take a timeout and regroup?”

As a fan and “pseudo” former athlete, I know the importance of taking a timeout in an effort to regain perspective and set a strategy to gain momentum. I’ve seen coaches call a timeout which results in the players returning to the game with a new found energy and determination. On the flip side, I have also seen the opportunity for a timeout slip away along with the chance for victory, resulting in disappointed players, coaches and fans.

Regardless of the sport, every team takes timeouts. They have incremental breaks and half times. I have seen athletes who are at the top of their game request to be pulled out of the game in an attempt to catch their breath or seek advice.

In today’s fast-paced business world, we would do good to follow the lead of some of our favorite athletes and teams. When your day is running “full press”, give yourself permission to take a time out, catch your breath, regain focus, and set a plan for gaining momentum.

If you spend your entire day on the field, in the trenches of your work, you are missing an opportunity to step back and see the entire field of play. You are also draining yourself of the energy needed to have a clear mind and full life after the game.

So, go ahead. Call a time out! Then get back in the game with greater focus and an effective strategy for gaining the edge.